But what I'm wondering about is just how "skill-based" combat is in Elex. Gothic, Gothic 2 and Risen were all very skill-based when it comes to melee combat.
How's Elex combat?
All forms of combat (1h, 2h, ranged and magic) are viable, though a "pure" approach is probably best for the first half or so. By that I mean that the damage reduction of the enemies is so high, similar to in Gothic 2: NotR, that gaining the upper hand by putting stats purely into the ones needed for a medium level weapon is the way to go.
Let's say you join the Clerics quickly with the intention of primarily using ranged weapons. Once you join them, certain rifles are unlocked, and it's well worth going straight for the top ones. Maybe even get one that says "can be upgraded" and then upgrading it. That requires a huge dex investment, but it makes such a massive difference in overcoming the damage reduction of mid-level enemies (still won't be enough for the high level ones).
The situation is the same for melee weapons. Anyone wanting an easy experience should join a faction early, pump a bunch of strength and get the faction-based ability to "modify weapons" that turn weapons into elemental damage. Elemental damage has a much easier time getting through damage reduction.
The skill requirement for melee weapons is similar to Risen 1, as dodging, blocking and such is required. However, actually getting through the damage reduction is the biggest challenge for the first 15 hours or so.
As for magic: Like I mentioned in the review, I prefer the system in Risen 3. I loved that system. The game was too easy, but that was just down to tuning. In ELEX it's certainly functional, but feels a bit flat.